Weighted blankets are becoming increasingly popular for helping people sleep better, especially children with autism. But are they also effective in relieving chronic pain like back pain?
The general consensus is that a weighted blanket can relieve back pain. But, there are some people claim that a weighted blanket can cause their back pain to worsen. There is no straightforward answer, and it depends on person-to-person. Here is a summary of all of the reasons for and against weighted blankets for back pain.
What Is A Weighted Blanket?
A weighted blanket is a big blanket with pockets that are filled with removable, evenly dispersed items (typically metal or plastic beads) sewn in. It’s usually made of cotton or fleece fabric. They’re considerably heavier than normal blankets, usually weighing between 15 and 30 pounds.
How Do Weighted Blankets Work?
Weighted blankets apply deep pressure stimulation (DPS) or proprioceptive input to the body, which can help release serotonin and create a calming effect. Serotonin is a hormone that helps improve mood and sleep quality, as well as decrease anxiety and stress. Weighted blankets can also increase production of melatonin, a hormone that induces drowsiness and helps promote sleep.
There are several ways that weighted blankets might work to improve sleep quality. Researchers think the weight stimulus mimics how your body feels when you hug or lie on top of someone else, which triggers a calming reflex in your body. This helps relax muscles and ease feelings of anxiety or panic.
Due to their soothing and therapeutic qualities, weighted blankets are an ideal sleep aid for individuals with autism, ADHD, anxiety issues, insomnia, and other sleep disorders.
Can A Weighted Blanket Cause Back Pain?
Weighted blankets should not cause back pain.
However, the effects of weighted blankets on back pain may vary from person to person. Many individuals who suffer from back discomfort have found that a weighted blanket helps to alleviate it, while others claim that it exacerbates their problem.
Manufacturers advise customers that it may take up to a few weeks for them to get used to the weight. The most likely reason for back pain while using a weighted blanket is that the blanket is simply too heavy or is not adjusted properly to the user. This can lead to unnecessary pain and possible injury.
In fact, statistics show that the most common cause of lower back pain is poor sitting and sleeping posture or repetitive strain injury. These can hardly be explained by a weighted blanket alone. If you do find relief by not using a weighted blanket, then listen to your body.
Benefits Of A Weighted Blanket For Back Pain
The most common benefit of using a weighted blanket for people with back pain is reduced stress levels, which in turn helps them to deal with their condition more easily. A heavy blanket can have a soothing, relaxing effect on an individual.
Another benefit of weighted blankets is that they assist with muscular discomfort by allowing for peaceful sleep. Restful sleep is vital to all of our systems, including the musculoskeletal system. If a weighted blanket helps with your sleep, it will assist with your muscular recovery too. Thus, helps manage acute back pain.
A weighted blanket is said to aid in the circulation of blood by providing compression therapy, which helps to relax muscles. This is especially useful for persons who suffer from back discomfort as it reduces muscular tightness, allowing them to move more freely.
Furthermore, being under a weighted blanket can boost serotonin levels in the brain, which can assist with chronic back pain.
Scientific studies have also shown that individuals who experienced chronic pain were found to have considerably decreased pain perception after utilizing a weighted blanket.
Disadvantages Of A Weighted Blanket For Back Pain
While weighted blankets may offer some benefits to those with back pain, there are also some potential disadvantages to using them.
One such disadvantage is that they can be heavy and hard to move around, which can make them difficult to use for people with mobility issues. Additionally, if a weighted blanket is too heavy or not properly adjusted, it can lead to pain and even injury.
However, it’s true that some customers claim that a weight blanket worsened their back pain, and in certain individuals, it even caused new back discomfort.
Some customers experienced pain due to the weight of the blanket itself, others complained that they felt like they were being squished. Some found that their backs got sore because they weren’t strong enough to handle the blanket’s weight.
If you already have back pain and are considering using a weighted blanket, check with your doctor before purchasing one to make sure it’s right for you. If the pains persist, stop using your weighted blanket immediately.
How To Choose A Weighted Blanket?
When looking to purchase a weighted blanket, it is important to consider a few factors in order to ensure you are making the best choice for your needs.
- Make sure to choose a blanket that is the right weight for you. A weighted blanket should be around 10% of your body weight.
- Choose a blanket that is the correct size. It should fit comfortably on your bed.
- Consider the fabric and material of the blanket before purchasing it.
- If you are sweaty when sleeping or have allergies, make sure to choose a breathable fabric washable weighted blanket for easy cleaning.
- Consider the fillings of the weighted blanket before purchasing it. There are many options, including plastic pellets or glass beads.
Best Weighted Blankets For Back Pain in 2024
Have you been looking for the perfect weighted blanket to soothe your sore back? We have three top picks for that works wonders in relaxing that tension.
YnM Weighted Blanket
Pros
- Wide range of color/style choices
- 100% cotton for premium softness
- Durable material
Cons
- Does not come with duvet cover
The YnM weighted blanket is the best overall option for comfort and relaxation for your sore back.
The blanket is made of 100% premium quality cotton with glass beads inside. YnM has perfected their sewing technology which means a long lasting durable cover without the pesky problem of beads leaking!
It is also maintains cool on the skin due to the breathable layers, but warm and cozy on cold days.
We use it all year round!
Our favourite thing about YnM products is its amazing variety of styles, colors and sizes. There is definitely one that will fit your room.
Luna Weighted Blanket
Pros
- Oeko Tex Certified – skin and eco-friendly
- Stylish and chic designs
- User-friendly guidel
Cons
- Slightly more pricey
The Luna Adult Weighted Blanket is perfect for your backs that want to feel like they are sleeping on clouds.
This cloud-like weighted blanket is made of breathable cotton that’s Oeko Tex Certified, meaning it has been tested free from any harmful chemicals or dyes!
It is made of 100% cotton and will also keep you warm and comfy all night long.
Not only do they feel good, they look amazing too – Luna has super stylish and minimalistic designs that would definitely tickle your fancy.
Plus easy care instructions make sure that this bad boy looks as good after use as when first bought.
Waowoo Weighted Blanket
Pros
- Best value for money on the market
- Many weight options
Cons
- Limited color choice
The Waowoo weighted blanket takes the win for the best value for money.
It is incredibly soft and comfortable, like someone is giving you a big hug. It will melt your stress and tension in your back away.
This blanket has even smaller pockets that ensures even distribution of glass beads, AND lighter fabric without changing its deep pressure effect!
It’s a snatch-worthy deal for all those on the hunt. There is also a suitable weight for everyone – they have 7 weight options! Remember the 10% rule when choosing how heavy your weighted blankets should be.
The big downside for me is the color personally – the classy gray is the only choice of color.
Management Options For Back Pain
– Keeping an upright posture: sitting up straight can help prevent back stiffness. It may also help to switch positions regularly, e.g. every 30 minutes, in order to avoid staying in one position for too long.
– Performing stretching exercises: you can try lying on your back with your knees up and slowly bringing your knees to your chest, holding for five seconds.
– Using supports: this may involve wearing lumbar support belts or using pillows to help keep the spine in good alignment.
Conclusion
Weighted blankets can be an effective back pain management tool. However, they may not work for everyone and can cause some people to experience discomfort or even injury if used incorrectly. Some individuals experience back pain due to the pressure of the blanket itself, while others have reported that their condition worsened after using a weighted blanket.
In order to ensure that weighted blankets are the right choice for your back pain, it is important to consult with your doctor first. Once you have been given the go ahead, make sure to purchase a blanket that is the correct weight and size for your needs.
FAQ
Can weighted blankets cause pain?
Weighted blankets on their own usually do not cause pain.
However, a weighted blanket can create more pressure on your body than you might be used to. This is because they are heavier than other blankets. If you have back pain, it is important to talk to your doctor before using a weighted blanket so you know what is right for you.
Can weighted blankets cause leg pain / joint pain / hip pain?
It’s not uncommon to experience a tingling sensation when using a weighted blanket. However, if you experience pain, it’s best to discontinue use and consult with your physician. A weighted blanket can be a great way to achieve deeper sleep and reduce anxiety, but it’s important to make sure you’re using one that’s comfortable and doesn’t cause discomfort.
Can weighted blankets cause blood clots ?
No, weighted blankets do not cause blood clots. While it is important to be aware of the risks associated with any type of blanket, there is no evidence that weighted blankets pose a greater risk for blood clots than other types of blankets. If you are concerned about the health risks associated with weighted blankets, speak to your doctor.
Can weighted blankets cause headaches?
There is little scientific evidence to support the claim that weighted blankets cause headaches. In fact, many users find relief from deep pressure therapy provided by a weighted blanket.
That said, it’s possible that for some people, the added weight of a blanket may be too much pressure and could lead to headaches. If you’re considering using a weighted blanket, it’s best to start slow and see how your body reacts. If you experience any discomfort or headache after using a weighted blanket, discontinue use and speak with your doctor.
